Matt Smith, known for his roles in “Doctor Who” and “The Crown,” is back as Daemon Targaryen in “House of the Dragon” Season 2. He reveals intriguing details about the upcoming season, touching on Daemon’s new challenges and the show’s evolution.
Smith describes Daemon as an “agent of chaos,” adding, “You never really know which way he’s going to go.” Season 2, premiering on June 16, plunges Daemon into a crisis. His character grapples with personal and political turmoil, becoming “much weaker,” Smith shares over a lunch in New York.
The first season set a high bar, showcasing Daemon’s volatile marriage to Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) and the Targaryen family feud. As the new season unfolds, Daemon’s journey intensifies. He faces isolation and betrayal, attempting to rally troops for the looming war. “He’s caught on the wrong foot by rivals within the family,” Smith explains. “It’s one that’s much weaker.”
Smith’s portrayal of Daemon continues to captivate audiences, echoing his earlier roles that balance charm and menace. Edgar Wright, who directed Smith in “Last Night in Soho,” notes, “He is in person incredibly charming and handsome. And yet he doesn’t have any qualms about pushing against that.”
Smith’s career, marked by roles like Prince Philip in “The Crown,” has prepared him well for the complex world of Westeros. Despite initial doubts about “House of the Dragon,” he now embraces the show’s potential. “Audiences have changed,” Smith acknowledges. “The way TV is consumed has changed.”
As the second season promises more depth and methodical pacing, fans can look forward to Daemon’s evolving storyline. Smith hints at new dimensions of his character, suggesting that Daemon’s mask will slip, revealing vulnerabilities. “Life becomes more difficult, and he gets soft around the edges,” he teases.
Stay tuned as “House of the Dragon” Season 2 returns with more drama, power struggles, and unexpected twists, proving why it remains a cornerstone of HBO’s programming arsenal.